For most people, the start of a new year brings joyous plans of fresh starts and new beginnings. But January 2012 was not that way for Steve Melchior. He buried his older brother in November 2011 and was faced with the death of his best friend just days after New Year’s.
Steve reached out to friends and North Penn classmates to talk about how they could memorialize Chris Melchior, NP ’83 and Mike Saks ’85, and make a difference in the North Penn community. A Facebook post and many conversations later brought the genesis of Knights for Life Foundation to light.
With a goal of helping their community, the North Penn alumni quickly assembled a board of directors, earned their 501(c)3 status, and created a mission statement that drives them forward today:
“Knights for Life Foundation strives to improve the quality of life for members of the North Penn community facing life threatening medical conditions and adversity.”
Brainstorming, planning, dedication, and hard work created countless Vendor Blenders, Wiffle Ball and Horseshoe Tournaments, Clothing Drives, Beef and Beers, and the now signature “Knight for a Cause” Gala. Along the way, key relationships with other community organizations were fostered bolstering Knights for Life’s fundraising efforts. Since their inception 10 years ago, Knights for Life has raised nearly $150,000 to help over 120 families.
A significant fundraising partnership was formed with the Cannoneers Sportsmens Club. Ricky Palmerio embraced Knights for Life’s mission by hosting countless beef and beers, and burger and hoagie days. Cannoneers is truly the heart of Lansdale, supporting youth sports and families. Cannoneers’ support has proven invaluable to Knights for Life, elevating the foundation’s ability to assist more families in the community.
Keeping the momentum going, this week Knights for Life is embarking on their largest fundraising effort to date — the Lansdale Beer Tasting Festival! The amazing brain trust from Lansdale Area Fundraising Society turned the reins over to Knights for Life to keep the festival moving forward, and on Saturday, June 25, the Beer Tasting Festival will return to Cannoneers Field after a two-year break due to the pandemic.
This event has been a highlight of the Lansdale community for many years. For more information, including tickets, visit www.lansdalebeerfest.com
Knights for Life is fueled by a team of North Penn alumni and community volunteers. Leading the team is President Sandy Weston Valencik ’85, Vice President Laura Smith ’84, Secretary Beth Steich Wood, ’89, Treasurer Karen Buchmann Crooks ’85, President Emeritus Todd Harper ’84, Lisa Patrick ’84, Mark Oxenreiter ’84, Renee Hunsberger Harrison ’91, Amy Smith ’89 and Magisterial District Judge Andrea Duffy.
Recognizing the community’s growing needs, the organization would like to continue to grow and expand their presence in the community. Class Reunion Chairs and interested alumni are encouraged to reach out, as well as any local businesses interested in participating as a sponsor.
Remember, once a Knight, always a Knight! Join Knights for Life at www.knights4life.org.
See also:
Cheers! The Lansdale Beer Tasting Festival Returns June 25
Knights for Life Fundraiser Draws Crowd in Support of Local Father Battling End-Stage Kidney Failure
Knights for Life to Host Fundraiser for Local Father of Four Battling End-Stage Kidney Failure
'Knight For A Cause' To Benefit Local Cancer Patient
Knights for Life to Host Frisbee Tournament Fundraiser
